Lisbon, Portugal – Belgian authorities have detained several individuals for questioning over alleged corruption in the European Parliament, the Belgian Public Prosecutor’s Office announced on Thursday. Federal police conducted 21 raids across Brussels, Flanders, Wallonia, and Portugal, seizing multiple documents and items.
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The case is linked to suspected active corruption and lobbying activities within the EU institutions.
According to Belgian newspaper Le Soir, the investigation focuses on lobbying practices in Brussels since 2021, allegedly linked to Chinese telecom giant Huawei.
Authorities suspect that financial transfers were made to one or more European lawmakers through a Portuguese company, which was also searched during the raids. The report did not provide further details.
A statement from the Belgian Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that around 100 officers were involved in the operation, with the crimes allegedly carried out by a criminal organization. The corruption, reportedly discreet but ongoing since 2021, allegedly took the form of cash payments, luxury gifts, paid trips, and invitations to football matches in exchange for political favors.
Huawei, which has a private box at Lotto Park stadium in Brussels, is believed to have provided VIP football tickets and high-value gifts, including Huawei smartphones.
Portugal’s Judiciary Police also conducted searches at a Portuguese company as part of an international request for assistance, reported CNN Portugal. However, no Portuguese MEPs are suspected of involvement.
The European Parliament has acknowledged the developments, stating through a spokesperson that it is monitoring the situation and will fully cooperate with judicial authorities if requested.
